Derby History Quiz

This industrial complex was once a thriving
example of the robust economy in Derby. Started as a family business by
twin brothers Sylvester and Sullivan Colburn in 1836, it stood on the what
is now the corner of Main and Water Street starting in 1838. At that early
date, Water Street was known as Factory Street. There was actually a
reservoir behind the factory that may have later given Water Street its
name. The road immediately on the eastern side of the foundry was called
Old River Lane, and there was a branch of the Naugatuck River flowing
there.

The foundry did not actually take on the name of
Birmingham Iron Foundry until 1850 when the Colburns sold it to the new
company headed by Sheldon Bassett. They manufactured chilled and sand
rolls, rubber machinery of all kinds and rolling mill machinery. Most
people alive today recognize it by its last name - Farrell's. It was torn
down in 2000 to make way for Home Depot.